Vatican

2013

Commemorative coin

Sede Vacante MMXIII

Official Journal of the European Union

The design features the coat of arms of the Cardinal Camerlengo and above it the symbol of the Apostolic Camera, two small crosses, the words ‘CITTÀ DEL VATICANO’ at the left and ‘SEDE VACANTE MMXIII’ at the right. The coin’s outer ring depicts the 12 stars of the European flag.

Additional information

The surprising resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, who had been in office since 2005, caused a vacancy in the Holy See - which means "unoccupation of the chair" (Petri), i.e. the vacancy of the papacy. Depicted are the insignia of the Apostolic Chamber above the coat of arms of the Cardinal Treasurer Tarcisio Bertone and his motto "Fidem custodire, concordiam servare" (Protect faith, preserve unity). In the 12 o'clock and 6 o'clock position there is a cross on each paw.

Edge lettering

Designer